Indo-Japan strategic dialogue today, nuclear cooperation on agenda

New Delhi, Aug 21 (ANI): India and Japan will hold the fourth strategic dialogue after the arrival of Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada in New Delhi on Saturday, during which the two sides will reportedly discuss a wide gamut of issues, including bilateral civil nuclear cooperation

The visiting dignitary will meet External Affairs Minister S M Krishna later in the day and hold a joint press conference in the evening.

The duo is also expected to review the status of the relationship between the two countries.

"Though there was no timeline for the pact, the next round of talks will be held sooner rather than later," said Ministry of External Affairs Secretary (East Asia) Gautam Bambawale, refuting reports that the recent declaration made by Mayor of Nagasaki criticising the Japanese Government for launching nuclear cooperation talks with India will have any negative impact.

"India was aware of the sensitivities reflected in some viewpoints expressed in that country and it was appreciative of those viewpoints but it was up to the Government of Japan to take care of such issues," he added.

Bambawale further said the two sides have decided to work towards a good working pact in the area, creating a win-win situation for both the countries.

According to reports, the Japanese Foreign Minister told the media that he will discuss with the Indian leadership issues such as bilateral civilian nuclear cooperation pact and a free trade agreement, negotiations for which are on.

India and Japan will also discuss economic ties, situation in Pakistan and Afghanistan, reforms in the United Nations and expansion of its Security Council, besides a discussion on civil nuclear cooperation.kada is also expected to bring forth the situation in North Korea, which does not have diplomatic ties with Japan.

The visit is also aimed at firming up the agenda for Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's trip to Tokyo later this year during which he will have a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan. (ANI)